Powell’s bookstore so big, actually needs map

If you read the words, look at the pictures, or simply just like the way they look and smell, a bookstore is a place to get lost. And in some cases, I mean you can actually, literally get lost.

Portland, Oreg. is known for a few things: being weird, Voodoo Doughnuts, and the skinny tie. Unfortunately not making the top three, but still of equal importance is Powell’s City of Books, the 68,000-square-foot book-mammoth downtown.

Powell’s City of Books is located on Burnside St. between 10th and 11th Ave, and is the largest bookstore in the world. Photo by Brooke Stobbe

The flagship of the five Powell’s Books, the building takes an entire city block and is divided into nine color-coded rooms, taking the bookstore experience to the next level. Three levels, that is.

Powell’s has over 3,500 book sections, covering absolutely any topic you could maybe be looking for, new and used. In the off-chance you can’t find what you need or something of interest, check the Rare Book room for those autographed first editions or titles you didn’t think anyone else knew about.

Sound intimidating? The designers knew you would be. Which is why when you enter, you actually are stopped by a store map and pamphlets to guide you through before even entering the yellow room. Although, the front door does indeed enter into the orange room, where you can sell your own used books.

One thought on “Powell’s bookstore so big, actually needs map”

Love this! I had the pleasure of going there a few years back, and I was totally taken aback at the size! So intimidating. Either way, thanks for sharing! If you’re ever interested in some great book reviews and musings, be sure to follow! Thanks!